Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site

When it comes to exploring Ottawa’s historic sites, most visitors focus on Parliament Hill, museums, or scenic canal rides. But if you’re after something a little different that combines history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural, the Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery is a compelling choice. For just over $25, you’ll spend about 75 minutes wandering among crypts, headstones, and markers in a historic setting that’s as much about stories and memories as it is about ghosts.

The tour is led by engaging guides like Caralyn and Felix, who bring the grounds alive—sometimes quite literally—through insightful tales and personal talents like music and fortune-telling. We love that this experience offers a unique blend of history and ghostly legends, especially the chance to step inside the mausoleum after sunset, which adds an extra thrill.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is mostly outdoors, so dressing for the weather is wise. Also, the group size is limited to 20, making it more intimate and allowing for a more personal experience. This tour is particularly suited for those who enjoy stories rooted in history, mild spookiness, and authentic outdoor settings, especially if you’re curious about the darker corners of Ottawa’s past.

Key Points

• Historic setting: Beechwood Cemetery is a designated National Historic Site, adding depth to the stories shared during the tour.
• Storytelling and legends: Guides share tales of the cemetery’s early days, ghost stories, and reports from staff that keep the atmosphere lively and a little eerie.
• Inside access: The final stop inside the mausoleum after sunset is a rare opportunity that heightens the suspense.
• Value for money: At $25.16, it offers a well-paced, engaging experience with personal touches like music and storytelling.
• Outdoor experience: Expect mostly walking outdoors; comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring everyone can hear and participate comfortably.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Walk Experience in Ottawa

Setting the Scene: Beechwood Cemetery

Nestled in Ottawa’s Vanier neighborhood, Beechwood Cemetery isn’t just a peaceful place for reflection—it’s a historic site with stories dating back to its founding. As we approach the meeting point at 280 Beechwood Ave., the quiet grandeur of the tombstones and crypts sets the tone perfectly. This is a place where history whispers from every stone, and the stories told here are as alive as the visitors walking among them.

The Guided Tour: Walking Among the Dead and the Stories They Tell

The tour begins with a 60-minute walk among the historic headstones, where guides share tales of those buried here—their lives, their legacies, and sometimes, the strange reports that continue to this day. We loved how the guides, especially Caralyn, brought the stories to life with wit and insight. Their knowledge gleamed whether talking about the early days of the cemetery or recounting ghostly reports from staff.

During this walk, expect to encounter stories of restless spirits and those believed to linger around their final resting places. These aren’t just ghost stories for the sake of scares, but stories rooted in real histories and eyewitness accounts. The reports from staff, which continue to this day, add a layer of authenticity and intrigue to the experience.

The Final Stop: Inside the Mausoleum

The highlight for many is the last 15 minutes inside the mausoleum, a rare chance to step inside this sacred, usually off-limits space. Visiting after sunset offers a dimly lit, almost cinematic backdrop to the final tale, heightening the sense of mystery and suspense. We found this part particularly memorable, as it’s an unusual glimpse into what many consider a solemn monument—turned storybook setting for ghostly tales.

The Experience: Atmosphere, Group Size, and Practicalities

With a maximum group size of 20, the tour strikes a good balance—intimate enough to feel personal, but lively enough to share reactions and stories. The outdoor nature of the tour means you’ll be walking on uneven ground, so shoes should be sturdy, and dressing for the weather is essential, especially in cooler or rainy seasons.

The duration of 1 hour 15 minutes feels just right—long enough to tell meaningful stories and explore without overstaying. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, with most bookings made about a week in advance.

Pricing and Value

At $25.16 per person, this tour offers a good value, especially considering the inside access at the mausoleum and the personalized storytelling. Compared to other indoor or mass tours, this one feels intimate and dedicated to genuine storytelling, which many reviews praise as insightful and entertaining. Justin, one reviewer, appreciated the storytelling quality, saying, “It’s a good way to meet new people and learn history.”

What We Love

• The blend of history and ghost stories makes the experience engaging on multiple levels.
• The inside visit to the mausoleum adds an exclusive, memorable touch that’s rarely available on other tours.
• The personalities of the guides, particularly Caralyn’s wit and knowledge, enhance the overall enjoyment.
• The atmospheric outdoor setting in a historic cemetery creates an authentic and slightly spooky ambiance that elevates the stories.

Considerations for Visitors

While this tour is well-reviewed, it is important to note that it’s mostly outdoors, so bad weather might dampen the experience or necessitate rescheduling. Also, the spooky stories are mild; if you’re looking for full-blown horror or very intense scares, this might be more subdued than you expect. However, if you’re after a thoughtful, atmospheric, and slightly spooky experience, it hits the mark nicely.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, ghost-story enthusiasts, and those curious about Ottawa’s darker stories. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy stories rooted in real people and places, as well as those who appreciate a more personal, intimate group setting. It’s a family-friendly activity for older children who can handle outdoor walking and spooky tales, but may not be ideal for very young kids.

If you’re seeking a fun, atmospheric evening with a touch of education and mystery, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
The tour is primarily outdoors, so it’s best enjoyed in good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 1 hour 15 minutes, including the inside mausoleum visit.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the guided outdoor walk and the inside visit to the mausoleum. No additional fees are mentioned.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation to the meeting point difficult?
The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible without a car.

What makes this tour stand out from other Ottawa tours?
The combination of historic storytelling, ghostly legends, and inside access to a mausoleum makes it a unique, atmospheric experience.

What kind of stories will I hear?
You’ll learn about the cemetery’s early days, hear ghost stories, and reports from staff, all told in a lively and engaging manner.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery offers a rare blend of history, storytelling, and ghostly lore within a beautiful and historic setting. For those who enjoy a mild thrill, appreciate genuine stories rooted in real places, and are looking for an authentic outdoor experience, this tour hits the sweet spot. The guides’ personable approach, combined with the opportunity to step inside the mausoleum, makes it a memorable evening that’s well worth the modest price.

Whether you’re a local seeking a new perspective on Ottawa’s history or a visitor curious about its darker tales, this tour delivers a balanced mix of education and entertainment. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a more personal, atmospheric adventure that’s a little spooky but always respectful of the site’s solemnity.

If spooky stories and historic cemeteries intrigue you, set your date, dress warmly, and prepare for a captivating evening you’ll be talking about long after the lights come back on.